MCAS Cherry Point is a vital hub for U.S. military aviation, hosting the first East Coast F-35B and F-35C squadrons under Marine Aircraft Group 14 and the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 251, known as the Thunderbolts, and VMFA 542, known as the Wildcats, bring a powerful combination of the F-35C’s extended range and the F-35B’s short takeoff and vertical landing capability, strengthening Marine Corps operational effectiveness.
To support these advanced aircraft, Michael Baker International and Walsh Federal LLC delivered a 150,003-square-foot, state-of-the-art maintenance hangar designed for speed, efficiency, and combat readiness. The facility accommodates several aircraft and provides specialized workstations, seismic construction, secure flight operations areas, hazardous material storage and anti-terrorism safety features. The hangar also integrates underwing fire suppression and specialized preconditioned air systems to maintain peak performance for the F-35 airframe.
Beyond the hangar, significant infrastructure upgrades include taxiway revamps, aircraft apron renovations, enhanced electrical grounding and sunshade installations, further reinforcing mission-critical operations.
As part of a Design-Build team, Michael Baker led design efforts, incorporating site civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, telecommunications and cybersecurity engineering to meet stringent military standards. Walsh Federal served as the contractor for the project.
Despite an aggressive timeline, the Design-Build team successfully met mission-critical requirements, ensuring the F-35 squadrons are fully supported at MCAS Cherry Point. With these enhancements, the air station solidifies its position as a cornerstone of Marine Corps aviation, ready to support future operations and maintain military superiority.